Today marks the 20th anniversary of International Families Day, which aims to celebrate the importance of families throughout the world. But, when you’re separated or going through separation, it’s easy to feel like the traditional definition of a “family unit” just doesn’t apply to you.

Things may have worked out differently than you planned, but it can still be possible to be a family after you’re separated, if you can work together for the sake of your children. That’s why we thought today would be a good time to revisit the idea of “separated families”.

Separated families come in all shapes and sizes

These days, families come in all sorts of shapes and sizes – step-families, adopted families…and separated families. You could have a separated family, whether you have recently separated or if you’ve been separated for a few years. You may even have a step-family as well as a separated family! You could have never lived with your child’s other parent or been in a family situation together.

Working together as a separated family

Whatever shape your separated family comes in, it’s still important to work out how your child can be supported by both parents.

That’s because being a separated family is about working together, rather than fitting into the traditional family shape. In fact, research shows that the way a family works together has more effect on a child’s life than the family’s structure itself.

Of course, one of the ways you can support your child is to make a family-based child maintenance arrangement. Child Maintenance Options can help you put a child maintenance arrangement in place – call us now on 0800 988 0988 to talk through your options.

It would also be great if you would share your experiences of working together with your child’s other parent here on Talking Child Maintenance…